Month: June 2019

Seven Arts, Leeds – Thursday 13th June 2019

Reviewed By Dawn Smallwood

4****

Tutti Frutti is reputed for delivering successful imaginative and creative children’s theatre whether it’s based on a traditional story or a contemporary imaginative retelling. More so is inclusivity as this unique production is told by three performers through words, movement, dance and British Sign Language.

Written by Brendan Murray, an award winning writer, Yellow is the Colour of Sunshine, is about two friends, Yoshi (Connor Bryson) and Hani (Phoebe Stapleton) whose differences could not be any more contrasting. They play and learn to communicate their feelings in all circumstances through the good and the bad times. They are supported and mentored by the Sky, Kite and Magpie which are portrayed by Holly Irving.

Emotional intelligence is very important in a child’s development and this play takes this in account and how those variable behaviours link on stage. The children’s play is imaginatively projected in a way that there is something for everyone to learn and think whether one is a child or an adult.

Kate Bunce’s simple staging in an intimate space is lightly colourful and the costumes and props blend in nicely. Set to variable music, sounds (Christella Litras) and lighting (Sara Burns) and under the direction of Wendy Harris, the play is energetically and reflectively told with a passionate performance from Bryson, Stapleton and Irving.

There is a lot of storytelling packed in the one act play, approximately 45 minutes, and it has been received well by the family friendly audience. The colours yellow, blue and green are figuratively connected to growth, learning, positivity and optimism and Yellow is the Colour of Sunshine physically echoes this with an inclusively beautiful performance.

Touring until July 2019

Yeadon Town Hall, Leeds – until 15 June 2019

Reviewed by Debra Shaw

4****

Prepare to be thoroughly entertained as you watch a celebration of the world famous, Grammy award winning American songstress Carole King. This brand new production takes you on the musical journey through her life.

From the newly formed Yeadon Town Hall Productions comes a musical revue that will delight Carole King fans and surely make new ones as it takes The Carole King Songbook on its UK tour at the end of June. Carole King’s hit music career spans decades, the show spotlights her work not only as a solo artist but her many songs, made hits by the likes of Neil Sedaka, the Drifters, Aretha Franklin, and the Beatles to name but a few.

The songs are performed by 4 talented artists, whose vocals showcase Carole’s amazing work wonderfully. Eve Rhianna Kitchingham, Kara Mottram, Thomas Lillywhite and Danny Dixon work in harmony together to entertain the mixed audience of young and old. They perform hits such as: Da Doo Ron Ron, Stairway to Heaven, Some Kind of Wonderful, (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman, Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow, You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling and You’ve Got a Friend and many more. With stunning visuals provided by the LED wall as their backdrop, impressive lighting and accompanying musicians The Carole King Songbook is not be missed. The unplanned encore was testament to this with the audience shouting for more until they got it! Although during the first half of the show it would have been good to see pictures of Carole King on the LED wall to accompany the narrative elements.

Having been a previous visitor to Yeadon Town Hall, I was impressed with the recent and still ongoing refurbishment, and what the Yeadon Town Hall CIC is aiming to do for the local area is admirable.

Edinburgh Playhouse – until Saturday 15 June 2019

Reviewed by Manetta McIntosh

4****

Take a fondue set because the cheese is delicious. The 80’s was my era for music so I was excited about this musical, but it has far exceeded my expectations. It took a minute for me to settle into the production, the story follows a young couple about to get married but cold feet set in, the bride calls it off although decides to go on the honeymoon with her two friends. Funny old thing, the jilted groom does the same thing and they end up at the same resort…let the games commence.

Team Bride, played by Karina Hind (bride), Tara Verloop and Rebecca Mendoza were basically your typical 80’s group of friends; the sensible cute one, the goodtime girl and the funny one in that order.

Team Groom, played by Cellen Chugg Jones (groom), Rory Phelan and Kane Verrall were your typical 80’s blokes, the sensible cute one, the goodtime boy and the ‘sensitive’ one…you get the picture.

The songs set the scene, from Don’t Leave Me This Way to Making Your Mind Up, this was a musical blast from the past. I did not think some of the songs would work in a ‘show-tunes’ format, but they just did. The singing was excellent, the range of some of the songs would have been a challenge for most but Cellen hitting those A-Ha high notes was incredible.

Once the ‘teams’ get to Club Tropicana there really was fun and sunshine for everyone. Gary (Joe McElderry) and Consuela (Kate Robbins) absolutely stole the show for me. The script and their delivery was undeniably on point. I was crying with laughter from the moment they came on stage. But for me, the line of the show has to go to Christina (Emily Tierney) who, whilst considering which cocktail to have, asked Robert (Nye Rees) if he’d ever had a Tight Snatch, I thought I was going to pass out.

There was more intrigue at the holiday destination as the hotel owners, Serena (Amelle Berrabah) and Robert (Nye Rees) discovered the deceitful Christina (Emily Tierney) was trying to sabotage their business and their relationship. But true love and friendship prevails in the end.

You don’t have to have lived through the 80’s to enjoy this show but it definitely helps to understand the hairstyles and shoulder pads. The music transcends the decades and the generations and had everyone up on their feet towards the end. My favourite song has to be Relax sung by the amazing Joe McElderry, he is an exceptionally talented performer in my opinion. I was disappointed that they didn’t sing Club Tropicana but this musical is indeed a whole night’s holiday, so if you want to brush shoulders with the stars, this is the place for you.

Kings Theatre, Glasgow – until 22 June 2019

Reviewed by Linda McLaughlan

5*****

“Touching and emotional production following the lives of a sleepy Yorkshire community”

Unfortunately we have all been touched by someone who has lost a loved one to cancer in one form or another and can relate to the impact this has on families and communities. This production follows on from an event that took place in the sleepy Yorkshire Dales when a group of ladies and friends who attended their WI meetings came up with the idea to raise money for the Leukaemia Research Fund.

We have all seen the amazing which covered the family and friends as they began their journey to produce a suitable alternative Calendar to raise funds. The theatre production however I felt took the events to a far higher level with the production bringing the excitement, sadness, frustrations and end result to life for the entire audience.

There were tears and laughter throughout the evening and the theatre had a air of excitement as the actors who were all very well known from a wide range of TV and Theatre backgrounds built up to the final scenes when the Calendar began to take shape. All the nude scenes were tastefully performed which was very dignified and suitable for the audience to be part of.

I would recommended that everyone visits the Theatre for this production as the entire performance and musical collaboration from Gary Barlow and Tim Firth was respectfully done.

Yvonne Arnaud – until 15th June 2019

Reviewed by Heather Chalkley

4****

A fast paced musical full of fun and antics, sending a clear social message through an accessible medium. The Pajama Game is based on the novel Seven and a Half Cents written by Richard Bissell. It comes from a strong pedigree first performed in the 50’s and revived many years later in both the West End and Broadway. It follows the progress of an ambitious young man from Chicago named Sid Sorokin (Oli Dickson).

Dickson (Sorokin) warms into his vocals, conveying passion and strength. Dickson (Sorokin) is caught between blue collar workers and the boss, is ambitious and in love. By the same token Ellie Sharpe (Babe) carries an air of confidence that lifts her above the rest, caught between her passion for fairness and her passion for Sid (Dickson). Both Dickson and Sharpe are great storytellers, carrying you in a quick step through their journey.

I have watched many films of that golden age. Ellie Sharpe (Babe) has a real twinkle of Doris Day in her performance, carrying herself with confidence and playful swagger. Oli Dickson cleverly gives Sid Sorokin that self-determination so reminiscent of that era.

The ensemble is a tight group of players, with great vocals, on pointe dance moves and terrific comedic timing. They transport you back to the 50’s pyjama factory, where the patriarchal leadership gives birth to a work family, bonded together in their fight for their rights. Funny and sad in places, full of energy and drive.

The creative team does a wonderful job keeping the costume relevant, bright and with a touch of humour when needed. The set is mobile and dynamic and thoroughly reflects the factory shop floor of that time, allowing quick changes with a noisy ensemble, making it feel completely natural.

If author Richard Bissell turned up to see the performance, he would be proud of what his book has achieved in this production. Bringing the message to the people that you must stick together and stand up for what you believe in, however powerful the adversary may be. Very relevant in Britain right now.

Mayflower Theatre Southampton – until 6th July 2019

Reviewed by Leanne Caplis

5*****

The multiple award-winning musical adaption of the much-loved story by Roald Dahl sees Matilda embarking on its UK Tour following its success in the West End and audiences are in for a real treat.

Matilda (Freya Scott) is an unwelcome child to her air-head mother and con-man father Mr and Mrs Wormwood (Rebecca Thornhill & Sebastien Torkia). Mr Wormwood cannot accept Matilda as a girl and refers to her throughout as ‘boy’ and makes it clear she would be better watching more ‘telly’ than having her head in her books. Mrs Wormwood wants to dance her days away rather than accepting she has a very special daughter who can move things with her eyes and speak Russian fluently.

On turning 5 Matilda is sent off to school where the feared Miss Trunchbull (Elliot Harper) rules her school with an iron fist. Miss Trunchbull is a big bully who uses the chokey as punishment for the smallest things. In stark contrast Matilda’s lovely teacher Miss Honey (Carly Thoms) recognises something special in Matilda and soon a special relationship develops.

From start to finish this show is a mass of singing, dancing, comedy, cheesiness and magic. The staging, props and lights of this show are mind-blowing. It is clear to see this has been a West-End show and no expense has been spared. Watch as the stage transforms from a lounge to a classroom to a physical education hall and the home of Miss Honey. There are some spectacular moments that stood out for me and these are the School Song where the alphabet wall is used and When I Grow Up where the cast enter the stage from a slide to swing above the audience on their swings.

There is a perfect amount of adult humour in this production to make it a perfect show for adults and children alike. There was a real buzz from the younger members of the audience. Their whispers asking how Trunchbull was able to spin one of the children around by her pigtails and how they did the magic with the chalk was infectious to listen to.

The whole cast of this production are remarkable and every single one deserves a special mention. The children make this show the success it is. Watching them dance, sing and act their way through scene after scene reveals just how talented they all are. They do not miss a line or a dance step and their facial expressions really bring the story to life.

Special mentions go to Freya Scott who plays Matilda and Elliot Harper as Trunchbull. Freya is one to watch for the future, I will be following her progression and I can’t wait to see her in many leading roles. There was silence from the audience as Freya sang Quiet; her voice is beautiful and looking round I could see tears in the eyes of many. Elliot Harper plays Trunchbull perfectly. Her hobbyhorse scene during physical education left me in stitches and she really brought back memories of the most feared teachers from my childhood.

This show is a must see for all ages. With dance scenes that would not be out of place on Strictly, magic which will leave you wondering how they did it and not forgetting the amazing singing it’s just pure brilliance. If you don’t book you deserve some time in the Chokey

York Theatre Royal – until 29th June 2019

Reviewed by Marcus Richardson

5*****

Driving Miss Daisy may be known to some as the multi-Oscar Award winning film featuring Jessica Tandy and Morgan Freeman, however this successful 1989 film was originally an off-Broadway production. The show, which features a African-American driver by the name of Hoke Colburn and Daisy Werthan, an old Jewish retired school teacher. Set in in the late 40s and goes on throughout the years as the relationship evolves between the two.

The show features a cast of just three actors playing a character each. I want to start off by saying I was blown away; the stubborn and proud character of Daisy Werthan is bought alive by Paula Wilcox, who creates a relatable, yet at times cold, personality on stage. As we watch how her character develops over the years, Wilcox stole the second act in the show with the character getting older, it was hard to see the actor behind the character even though the character was much older than herself. The play is about the relationship between Hoke and Daisy and it should only be fitting that Maury Richards, who played Hoke did as good of a job as Wilcox. Richards character was warm and hard working, Richards makes sure that the Wilcox and, more importantly her character, are the focus of the play. This works amazing for his character who is happy with his place as a driver. The relationship between the two characters is amazing to watch on stage, especially when the actors work so well together, just to see how Daisy warms up towards Hoke is something sweet and beautiful. The third, and final character is Daisy’s son Boolie Werthan, played by Cory English, although the character isn’t the focus of the play English still does a tremendous job creating a character that helps move the play along and fit alongside the other characters. I was stunned with how all three actors did such good jobs with not just creating characters, but creating relationships on stage. To me that’s what made this show incredible with the focus is on relationships how how they develop over time.

Obviously with a show about driving a car, there may have to be some form of automobile on stage, this show did not disappoint. At the centre of the stage there was this ‘car’ on a turntable which the actors used throughout the play, this wasn’t a real car and the design didn’t hide that fact it wasn’t a real car, a gentle reminder that we are watching a piece of theatre. To show the progression of time and to help as a helpful guide, there were projections of newspapers headlines and other iconic moments throughout the time period at the top of stage.

I didn’t think I was going to like the play as much as I did, but I am so glad I got to watch this masterpiece of acting. I love how the play touches upon issues whilst also not making them the centrepiece of the performance. A thought provoking, genteel show that is calming to watch and pleasant enough not to put anyone off. Would I recommend this show? 100%, if you can’t tell how much I like the show from this review I may as well just stop writing reviews altogether. This performance of Driving Miss Daisy is only at York Theatre Royal until 29th June and is not touring, however it is worth the travel.

Bristol Hippodrome – until 15th June 2019

Reviewed by Lucy Hitchcock

3***

The 1980 classic coming of age film Fame has slid in Bristol for the 30th Anniversary Tour, showing that it really will Live Forever!

The cast is a mix of multitalented performers, who interchange between song, dance and instrument playing effortlessly. Challenging themes such as homesexuality, drug use, illiteracy and the fear of failure, this is the perfect show to relate to all ages-which was reflected in the onlookers in the auditorium. The youngsters are all accepted into ‘PA’ a prestigious performing arts school and they learn to develop, use and fine tune their talents whilst having to battle the gripes of teenage life. 

The head of the school, Miss Sherman (Mica Paris) is a strong willed but vulnerable lady, as shown through These are my Children. This was, by far, the standout element of the show. Her gospel voice with an exciting jazz nuance was stunning and soared throughout the audience, giving a jaw dropping performance. She was able to command the stage effortlessly and deserves every round of applause she receives!

The choreography from Nick Winston is great and was perfectly executed by the cast. Even during the whole cast dance routines, my eye was drawn to Hayley Johnston (Mabel) as she put her heart and soul into the scenes and you could tell she was thoroughly enjoying herself. Jorgie Porter as Iris showcased her talents with dance, that were fluid and well executed. Cast members Alexander Zane, Louisa Beadel and Simon Anthony as Goody, Lambchops and Schlomo were exquisite. The played Saxaphone, Drums, Oboe, piano and trumpet to name a few during every song-a treat for us all! Molly McGuire and Stephanie Rojas as Serena and Carmen were also brilliant with their soaring voices to match the hard hitting themes of the show. 

Keith Jack was also brilliant as Nick-a plucky lad with heaps of talent and the determination of an ox. Jack was great, he absolutely fit the role perfectly and his vocal talent was second to none. The passion and excitement of Jack was show onstage and he played the role with upmost exuberance-a great casting choice!

Overall, this is a good show, but in some parts left me wanting more and fell a little lacklustre. But this is counteracted when you see how much fun the cast have doing this show – the friendships and strong bonds built through the cast are evident onstage which enhances the performances.

Grand Opera House York – until Saturday 15th June 2019.

Reviewed by Michelle Richardson

5*****

Already seen by over 30 million theatre goers worldwide, Richard O’Brien’s legendary rock ‘n’ roll musical returns to the UK as part of a worldwide tour. This week it is showing in York and I couldn’t wait to see it again.

After a slight delay, presume there were some technical difficulties, the Usherette (Laura Harrison, who also plays Magenta) belts out the opening number Science Fiction/Double Feature, much to the delight of the enthusiastic audience, before the curtain is pulled back and the show can begin.

This classic musical extravaganza tells the story of two sweethearts, Janet (Joanne Clifton) and Brad (James Darch), who have just gotten engaged. When their car breaks down, they decide to go for help and stumble on the eerie castle of Frank N Furter (Stephen Webb), and his houseful of very strange indeed, groupies, led by the creepy butler Riff Raff (Kristian Lavercombe, who has over 1,300 performances under his belt). Brad and Janet find their innocence flying out of the window, both being seduced by the mad scientist, Transylvanian Transvestite, Frank N Furter.

What follows is a dazzling, chaotic, wacky musical. It has a narrator, on this occasion Steve Punt, who steers us through the story, all the while being heckled by the audience. This can be very strange at first, but it is actively encouraged and Rocky Horror fans know just what to shout out and when. It’s very entertaining to listen to the interaction and Punt’s quick wit in his replies.

Clinton is a very perky Janet, exaggerating her reactions, reminded me of the old Carry On films. She was engaging to watch and sang and danced with passion. Darch’s Brad was quite different, the nerd being corrupted by all around him. Webb as Frank N Furter was just so compelling to watch, he commands the stage in those fishnet stockings and high heels, and he can sure sing. His rendition of I’m Coming Home was delivered with such real emotion.

I must also mention Callum Evans as Rocky, Frank N Furter’s creation. He is all muscle, posing around in his tight animal print briefs, he certainly got the audience hot and bothered. Not only did he show off his muscular physique, but also his fantastic acrobatic skills, somersaulting all over the stage with such apparent ease. He could also sing and act, what a package. The whole cast are a credit to the whole show, a complete package.

Rocky has the feel of a pantomime, but it is so much more than that with its great music, non-more so than the iconic The Time Warp, which always has the audience up on their feet dancing away, well as much as you can in a packed theatre. A story about a cross-dressing alien from planet Transsexual in the galaxy of Transylvania, shouldn’t work, but is so does. It first made an appearance, on stage, 46 years ago this month and is still going strong. Rocky has such a devout following, so you can expect to turn up to the theatre to find plenty of people dressed up. Men in stockings and suspenders, ladies in red curly wigs or gold top hats,

This show is pure entertainment, and even if you don’t get dressed up, you are sure to have a blast, so with a jump to the left, and then a step to the right, make sure you get your ticket whilst you can. A word of warning though, I was going to go again at the weekend with a few friends in all our Rocky gear and wanting to sit in the stalls, best place to sit to get the full interactive affect in my opinion, only to find that they had all sold out, left it too late. Make sure you get your tickets in plenty of time for this fabulous fun show.

New Victoria Theatre, Woking – until 15th June 2019.

Reviewed by Leanne Caplis

4****

Direct from the West End the Annie UK Tour stops at Woking before continuing onto theatres around the UK until Nov 19 where it ends at the Regent Theatre in Stoke-on-Trent.

Little Orphan Annie (Freya Yates) lives in a miserable orphanage run by the drunken Miss Hannigan (Craig Revel Horwood). Luck comes Annie’s way when Grace Farrell (Carolyn Maitland) chooses Annie to spend Christmas with Mr Warbucks (Alex Bourne) the billionaire.

From washing walls and scrubbing floors Annie finds herself visiting the Roxy, spending time with the President Franklin Roosevelt (Gary Davis) and having the time of her life but she still dreams of being re-united with her parents. Hannigan’s conniving brother Rooster (Richard Meek) and his accomplice Lily (Jenny Gayner) try to make that reunion happen so they can get their greedy mitts on Warkbuck’s cash, but Grace has her doubts and soon Annie is an orphan no more.

This production is a singing and dancing extravaganza from curtain up. With well known songs including Tomorrow, Hard Knock Life and Easy Street it is hard not to tap your feet along with the buzz of energy that is acted out before your eyes. The choreography is first class and together with very impressive staging I was mesmerised by the fast-paced movements of the whole cast who never missed a step.

For me the children are the stars of the show. Their rendition of Hard Knock Life blew me away. These young girls who can act, sing and dance without error are the future stars of our stages. Other stand-out cast members for me were Carolyn Maitland whose likeness to Grace in the original Annie film was uncanny and Jenny Gayner as Lily who danced Easy Street impeccably. A special mention for the adorable labradoodle whose occasional appearances on stage brought audible delight from the audience.

There did appear to be some sound issues. The loud radio announcements prior to curtain up did make for uncomfortable seating if, like me, you were early. Some of the cast members singing, on occasion, couldn’t be heard over the orchestra but as this was opening night I expect these will be ironed out for future productions and these should not detract from the overall brilliance.

If you are fan of musicals or the original Annie then this is a must see show and I bet your bottom dollar you won’t leave without a smile!